Supporting Kids Using the Climate Emotions Wheel

Provided by: Climate Mental Health Network |Published on: May 22, 2026

Activity - Classroom

K-12

Scientist Reviewed ↗

Synopsis

This guide offers tools to help children process climate-related emotions, including emotion wheels, examples of adult-child conversations, and routines that build preparedness and resilience before, during, and after extreme weather events.
The tools are designed for use by parents and educators, encouraging students to name, acknowledge, and channel their climate emotions toward self-care, community belonging, and action.

Related Teaching Resources

Subjects: Health

Authors: Climate Mental Health Network

Region: Global

Languages: English

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Teaching Materials

Classroom Implementation:

This resource works across all subjects and grades wherever climate change is discussed; it is not a standalone activity but a mental health support tool that complements climate education.
The emotions wheel (whether word- or emoji-based) can be used in relation to a myriad of topics and as a classroom routine.

Related Resources:

For younger students, pair this resource with an activity and coloring book about emergency preparation and resilience.
For older students, use this meditative podcast with climate activist Varshini Prakash to engage with a story about finding hope and courage in the face of climate anxiety.

Scientist Notes

Teaching Tips

Standards

Resource Type and Format

About the Partner Provider

Climate Mental Health Network

Climate Mental Health Network urgently addresses the mental health impacts of the climate crisis through education, community engagement and by harnessing the power of media and technology.

Scientist Reviewed

This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.

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